Blepharoplasty (Eyelid Lift)

Your eyes are your window to the world and one of the most tell tale signs of aging are the changes seen around them. The excess skin and lines that form around the eyes often form prematurely and may add years to one's appearance. Over time, the change in the skin of the eyelids may also give a person a more tired or angry appearance than they had in their youth. Eyelid skin tends to stretch with age and may even reach the point where it interferes with vision.

One of the most requested cosmetic surgery procedures in Jacksonville is Blepharoplasty or Eyelid Surgery. Many different surgical procedures are available to address the specific problems of the upper eyelids as well as the lower lids. A more crisp look around the eye serves to rejuvenate the entire face and is often all that is needed to rid one of a chronically tired look.

The anatomy of the upper and lower eyelids is completely different and must be evaluated separately to ensure the desired effect. Because they are so different, patients who have concerns about their upper lids, frequently do not require surgery of the lower lids and vice versa. However, other patients will benefit from simultaneous surgery of both eyelids for the optimal result. On the other hand, it is quite possible that excessive skin in the forehead or brow is causing the upper eyelid to appear full and that a Browlift would be more beneficial. The anatomy and physiology of the tissues around the eyes are very complex and delicate, thus it is imperative that each patient is evaluated individually.

Upper Eyelids:

The initial evaluation of any potential eyelid surgery begins with addressing the location of the eyebrow. Numerous patients will have a descent of the eyebrow with aging, which may or may not be symmetrical on each side. Years of plucking the eyebrows or even cosmetic tattooing of the eyebrow all play a role in determining the correct youthful position. The amount of redundant skin beneath the eyebrow is also evaluated, and may even partially block the visual field. The amount of fatty tissue beneath the upper eyelid is also evaluated and may need to be addressed at the time of surgery. We are cautious not to remove too much fat from the eyelids as this may lead to an unwanted “hollow” look later in life.

Lower Eyelids:

The initial evaluation of the lower eyelids includes a close look at the cheek and mid-face as they all blend together. Frequently complaints of the lower eyelid are not the eyelid itself but the changes of the cheek seen with aging. More frequently the lower eyelid harbors excess fat or "bags" under the eyes. However, the tone of the eyelid and the amount of excess skin must also be evaluated carefully as there is a delicate balance that must be maintained to ensure a youthful and natural result.

We have all seen people around Florida with eyes that have been pulled too tight or who have an 'operated look'. You can rest assured that at Ponte Vedra Med Spa we prefer a more natural appearance around the eyes and prefer a subtle rejuvenation. Each Blepharoplasty patient receives a thorough and specific evaluation of the eyelids as well as the surrounding structures in our Ponte Vedra office. We will discuss which issues concern you about the appearance of your eyes and together will determine which anatomic structures are responsible. Only then can we customize a specific surgical solution to deliver a more natural and youthful appearance.

Send us an email or call today for a Blepharoplsty consultation with one of our experienced Plastic Surgeons. Our offices are located in the Ponte Vedra MedSpa Plastic Surgery & Laser Center serving Jacksonville Beach, Ponte Vedra, St. Augustine and the entire Jacksonville area. We welcome the opportunity to speak with you further and answer your questions concerning a Blepharoplasty procedure.